Step 19: Trim the hatch

Here is a generic building plan for a teardrop designed by the members of T&TTT.

Step 19: Trim the hatch

Postby mikeschn » Thu Sep 29, 2005 2:54 pm

Step 19: Trim the hatch

Bend some deadsoft 1 ½” aluminum angle around the side profile of the hatch. If you purchased your angle from a hardware store or a home depot type store, you’ll have to soften it first before you can bend it. You’ll anneal the angle with a propane torch. Heat a small section of angle up until the flame coming off the aluminum is orange, then move on to the next section. Wear gloves, the aluminum gets hot!

Fasten the aluminum angle to the skin with pop rivets. It should extend beyond the bottom skin by 5/8”.

Image

Install a piece of 1/8” x 1” flat aluminum bar on the bottom edge of the hatch flush with the end of the angle.Fasten with stainless steel flat head screws. Then add your taillights, and license plate light. Round over the bottom corner of your aluminum angle.

Image

This is how your completed hatch should look.

Image

Image
The quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten, so build your teardrop with the best materials...
User avatar
mikeschn
Site Admin
 
Posts: 19202
Images: 479
Joined: Tue Apr 13, 2004 11:01 am
Location: MI

Return to Generic Building Plans

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 3 guests